What does an expert do to make sure they have people around them who offer different ideas, helpful tools, and comfort during big changes?

An expert actively cultivates a robust support system to navigate big changes effectively. To ensure they have people around them who offer different ideas, experts practice proactive networking, which means intentionally connecting with individuals from various disciplines, backgrounds, and levels of experience, beyond their immediate field. This approach encourages a diversity of thought and prevents "groupthink," a phenomenon where a group makes poor decisions because members prioritize conformity over critical evaluation. They foster an environment where challenging assumptions and offering alternative perspectives are not only tolerated but encouraged, ensuring a broader range of insights informs decision-making. For helpful tools, experts identify and strategically leverage practical resources and specific skill sets. This involves performing a needs assessment to determine what capabilities, technologies, or material assets are required for the change. They then either acquire these resources, facilitate training for their team to develop new skills, or delegate tasks to individuals with the necessary expertise. They also establish clear processes and adopt appropriate technologies to streamline operations, ensuring efficient execution and effective problem-solving during transitions. To provide comfort, experts prioritize building a foundation of trust and psychological safety. A psychologically safe environment is one where individuals feel secure in sharing concerns, asking for help, or admitting mistakes without fear of negative consequences or retribution. Experts demonstrate empathetic communication, which involves actively listening to others' concerns, acknowledging their feelings, and communicating changes clearly and compassionately. They also foster peer support networks, enabling colleagues to offer mutual encouragement and share experiences during stressful periods. Furthermore, experts maintain an approachable and visible leadership presence, providing reassurance and guidance, thereby mitigating anxiety and fostering resilience among those affected by the change.